Chain reactions

Resource availability is often the main culprit behind missed deadlines. As a result, project managers are using critical chain to build this factor into the planning process. This technique, which is based on the theory of constraints, sets out the quickest path from project acceptance to completion. Instead of basing the path on what needs to be done, it also addresses who should be doing it. This article presents three case studies that demonstrate how critical chain methodology can help an organization maximize constrained human resources. The first case study explores how critical chain methodology eliminates multitasking to help a construction company deliver projects faster. In the second case study, a pharmaceutical company launched two document management systems simultaneously, and critical chain sped up the process. In the third case study, an engineering firm implemented critical chain methodology to prioritize resources and improve its bottom line.

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